Bring mathematics to life with this engaging, student-centered project that combines algebra, creativity, writing, and self-reflection. Students use the digits from their birthday to create a unique polynomial, analyze its mathematical characteristics, graph the function, and use the graph as a metaphor to tell their personal story.

Rather than viewing polynomials as a collection of rules and procedures, students discover how mathematical concepts can be used to represent real-life experiences, challenges, achievements, and future goals. By connecting the rising and falling sections of a graph, turning points, x-intercepts, and end behavior to events in their own lives, students develop a deeper understanding of both mathematics and themselves.

What's Included

✔ Project directions and requirements
✔ Polynomial creation activity using birthday digits
✔ Mathematical analysis component
✔ Graphing component
✔ Narrative writing pages
✔ Reflection questions
✔ Grading rubric